Prof. Ogonna Sophina Umeh

Prof. Ogonna Sophina Umeh is a PROFESSOR in APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BREWING Department, Faculty Of Bio-sciences in Nnamdi Azikiwe University

Prof. Ogonna Sophina Umeh

Staff Profile

1. I am Prof. Sophina Ogonna Umeh. A native of Enugu-umuonyia in Orumba South LGA, Anambra State. *Am a Professor of Food, Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology in NAU, Awka. *Former Head of Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing. The HOD that organized first Departmental Lecture Series in the Faculty of Biosciences. Also the first HOD that organized and successfully hosted Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing Alumni Converge, with the theme Home Coming of Champions which attracted equipment worth Millions of Naira to the Departmental Laboratory. The first Alumni Converge in the Faculty of Biosciences since inception. *Areas specialized in Microbiology are Starter culture and Probiotics development,Food Security, Food Fermentation,Enrichment and Modification.

Personal Information

Email:
Phone:
Address:
Applied Microbiology And Brewing, Faculty Of Bio-sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
Faculty/Unit:
FACULTY OF BIO-SCIENCES
Department/Sub-Unit:
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BREWING

Academic Qualifications

Degrees / Basic Certificates
1Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State Nigeria. (Doctor of Philosophy, November, 2011)
June, 2007 to November, 2011
PH.D (Industrial Microbiology
2Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State Nigeria. (Master Degree, October, 2003)
July, 2000 to October, 2003
M. Tech. Production Technology (Biotechnology) Option
3Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State Nigeria. (Bachelor Degree, August, 1998)
October, 1992 to August, 1998
B. Tech
4Community Secondary School Umuchu, Anambra State Nigeria. (SSCE, June, 1988)
September, 1982 to June, 1988
SSCE
Other / Relevant Certificates
1PeaceLand College Of Education Enugu, Nigeria (March, 2017)
March, 2015 to March, 2017
PDE Education
2AfriHUB ICT Solutions For Africa (August, 2007)
September, 2006 to June, 2007
Computer Appreciation & Internet Utility (CAI) Certificate Of Proficiency

Relevant/Working Experience

1Reader, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
October, 2016 to October, 2019
2Senior Lecturer, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
October, 2013 to October, 2016
3Lecturer II, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
September, 2006 to October, 2009
4Professor Past HOD, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
October, 2005 to Present
5Assistant Lecturer, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
September, 2005 to September, 2006
6Chief Laboratory Scientist., Arizona Medical Laboratory, Ekwulobia
March, 2000 to November, 2002
7Chief Laboratory Scientist., Arizona Medical Laboratory, Ekwulobia
March, 2000 to November, 2002
8Laboratory Scientist., National Iron Ore Mining Project Itakpe, Okene, Kogi State
March, 1999 to February, 2000

Creative Output

Journal Articles
1Okafor, E.C., Umeh, S.O., Umunna, V.C.. (2026, January), "Assessment of Probiotic Activities of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Cassava Mill Effluent in Awka metropolis", IPS Journal of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Vol. 6, (Issue 1), pp 301-307
2Umeh, S.O.; Ogu, C.T.; Amagbaobi, C.O and Egwim, T. C. (2026, January), "Histopathological Responses Intestinal Tissues to Food borne Microorganisms from -Vended Foods in Anambra State, Nigeria", Journal of Diseases and Global Health, Vol. 19, (Issue 1), pp 20-32
3Okeke, Joy Ukamaka, Umeh Sophina Ogonna, Ezeuko Chukwuemeka Macillinus, Ezeuko Chidinma Maryrose and Okonkwo Chisom Peace. (2026, January), "Probiotic Activities of Lactic acid Bacteria Isolated from Different Types of Pap Against Selected Bacterial Strains", International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Sciences, Vol. 10, (Issue 12), pp 150-267
4Obiefuna, U.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H.. (2025, September), "Micronutrient Profile and Acceptability of Tomato Jam: A Comparison of High and Low Glycemic Carbohydrate Index Sweeteners", IPS Applied Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism Science, Vol. 3, (Issue 2), pp 67-74
5Obiefuna, U.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H.. (2025, September), "Assessing the Impact of Glycemic Index on Microbial Quality and Storage Stability of Tomato Jam", IPS Journal of Applied Microbiology and and Biotechnology, Vol. 4, (Issue 3), pp 192-202
6Obi Chisom Perpetua, Umeh Sophina Ogonna, Amagbaobi Charles Ohanenye. (2025, September), "Bacteriological examination of herbal mixtures consumed in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria", International Journal of Science and Research Archives, Vol. 16, (Issue 03), pp 209-218
7Ekechukwu, C.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H., Iheukwumere, C.M.. (2025, May), "Bacterial Loads of Smoked Fish and Chicken Meat: Role of pH and Moisture Content", IPS Journal of Nutrition, Food and Metabolism Science, Vol. 3, (Issue 1), pp 44-49
8C.C Ekechukwu, S.O. Umeh, I.H. Iheukwumere, C.M. Iheukwumere. (2025, May), "Prophylactic Potential of the Most potent Synergistic Biological Agent Infections from Smoked Fish and Chicken", IPS Journal of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Vol. 4, (Issue 3), pp 153-160
9Ekechukwu, C.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H., Iheukwumere, C.M.. (2025, May), "Biological Inhibition of Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Smoked fish and chicken: An I'm vivo Study", IPS Interdisciplinary Journal of Biological Sciences, Vol. 4, (Issue 2), pp 85-92
10Ekechukwu, C.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H., Iheukwumere, C.M.. (2025, May), "Synergistic Effects of Medicinal Plant Extracts and Lactobacillus species Against Bacterial Pathogens from Smoked Fish and Chicken Meat: An in vitro Study", IPS Journal of Natural Products, Vol. 1, (Issue 1), pp 13-18
11Obi CP, Umeh SO, Anaukwu CG. (2025, September), "Probiotic assessment of herbal mixtures sold in Awka metropolis", GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol. 32, (Issue 03), pp 114-124
12Chukwuemeka Marcillinus Ezeuko, Sophina Ogonna Umeh, Chidimma Maryrose Ezeuko, Onyekachukwu Izuchukwu Udemezue, Glory Chinecherem Uzoigwe. (2025, December), "Isolation, Screening and Characterization of Stress Tolerant Yeasts from Overripe Apple and Banana for Wine Production", European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, Vol. 17, (Issue 12), pp 172-180
13Charles Chukwuemeka Chigbu, Sophina Ogonna Umeh, Success Eni Kalu, Ifeoma Vivian Nwankwo. (2025, September), "Antimicrobial Activities of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract on Bacterial Pathogens Isolated from Ready to eat Meat pie Sold in Ana, ABIA State, Nigeria", South Asian Journal of Research in Microbiology, Vol. 19, (Issue 9), pp 24-33
14Obi CP, Umeh SO, Anaukwu CG. (2025, September), "Probiotic assessment of herbal mixtures sold in Awka metropolis", GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol. 32, (Issue 03), pp 114-124
15Obiefuna, U.C., Umeh, S.O., Iheukwumere, I.H.. (2025, September), "Physicochemical and Nutritional Properties of Tomato Jam: Influence of Sweetener Type and Glycemic Index", IPS Journal of Nutrition and Food Science, Vol. 4, (Issue 3), pp 561-568
16B.C. Uzor, Umeh S.O.. (2024, October), "Antagonistic Effect of Crude Bacteriocin Produced by Chungangia koreensis Strain CAU 9163 against Campylobacter spp", International Journal of Pathogen Research, Vol. 13, (Issue 6), pp 9-20
17Uzor B. C., Umeh S.O.. (2024, October), "Characteristics of Bacteriocin-like Substance Produced by Lactobacillus songhuajiangensis isolated from Raw Pap and Antimicrobial Activity Against Food borne Campylobacter spp.", Asian Journal of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Vol. 7, (Issue 2), pp 275-285
18CL Ohalete, SO Umeh, FO Nwajiobi. (2024, May), "Isolation and Screening of Trichosporon asahii for Biosurfactant Production and Optimization", International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, Vol. 9, (Issue 4), pp 413-424
19Victoria Chinaza Umunna, Sophina Ogonna Umeh, O.I Udemezue, C.R. Onyekachi, C.E. Okafor. (2024, September), "Probiotic Properties of Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarim Isolated from Overripe Avocado Pear.", Biotechnology Journal International, Vol. 28, (Issue 5), pp 74-83
20Ajogwu T.M.C, Ohuche J.C, Umeh S.O, Ngah O.C. (2023, November), "Bacteriological Assessment of Awarawa Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) Consumed in Awka, South Eastern Nigeria", International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, Vol. 10, (Issue 11), pp 540-546
21Ohuche JC, Ajogwu TMC, Umeh SO. (2023, August), "Low Cyanide-High Protein Dry Fufu Powder Processed from Cassava using Starter Culture Isolated from the Fermenting Mash", International Journal of Trends in Scientific Research, Vol. 7, (Issue 4), pp 523-529
22Ogbuagu AS, Innocent LC, Okoye NN, Umeh SO, Ogbuagu JO. (2023, April), "Green Synthesis of Silver and Zinc Oxide Nano particles Using Post-harvest leaves of Virgna subterranean and their Antimicrobial, Antiinflammatory and Antioxidant Potentials", Asian Journal of Applied Chemistry Research, Vol. 13, (Issue 3), pp 1-4
23Umeh, S.O., Okafor, U.C., Igwilo, I.O.. (2022, June), "Yeast Diversity Associated with Fermenting Nigerian Beverages, Burukutu and Fura", World wide Journal of Multidisciplinary Education Research, Vol. 1, (Issue 1), pp 11-15
24Sophina Ogonna Umeh, Innocent Onyeze Igwilo, Ugochukwu Chukwuma Okafor. (2022, October), "Isolation and Identification of Yeasts from Fermenting Indigenous Friut and Beverage Drinks sold at Awka", IOSR Journal of Environmental Science, Toxicology and Food Sciences, Vol. 16, (Issue 10), pp 55-61
25Umeh, S.O., Igwilo, I.O., Okafor, U,C, Agbara, A.C., Ezeh, F.N.. (2022, October), "Yeast Strains from Burukutu and Fura, as an Alternative for Commercial Baker's Yeast", International Journal of Engineering Research & Science, Vol. 8, (Issue 10), pp 18-23
26Ogu CT, Umeh SO, Nwiyi IU, Ikele MO, Okonkwo IF, Agwuna L. (2022, January), "Application of Palm Wine Yeast species in Beer Brewing", Journal of Advances in Microbiology, Vol. 22, (Issue 1), pp 67-75
27Umeh S.O., Okafor O.I., Chidubem-Nwachinemere N.O.. (2021, July), "Isolation And Identification Of Bacteria From Peeled Ready To Eat Pineapple (Ananas Comosus) Fruits Retailed At Eke Awka Market, Anambra State Nigeria.", IJTRSD, Vol. 5, (Issue 5), pp 1237 - 1242, Academia registered
28Umeh S.O., Nwiyi I.U., Dimejesi S.A., Ikele M.O., Ugwu C.H.. (2021, August), "Cassava Retting Water: An Alternative Source For Industrial Cellulase (Enzyme).", IJTRSD, Vol. 5, (Issue 5), pp 531 - 536, Academia registered
29Umeh S.O., Nwiyi I.U., Ogu C.T.. (2021, June), "Effect Egg Shells Washing On The Keeping Quality And Microbial Load Of The Egg Contents Stored At 4°C", WJMRD, Vol. 7, (Issue 6), pp 40 - 44, Academia registered
30Umeh S. O., Nwiyi I. U., Ogu C. T, Dimejesi S. A.. (2021, July), "Isolation And Possible Usage Of Yeast Strains From Indigenous Drinks For Possible Application In Brewing", WJMRD, Vol. 7, (Issue 7), pp 1 - 5, Academia registered
31Umeh S. O., Ikele M.O, Okeke B. C, Nwiyi I.U.. (2021, August), "Investigation In The Use Of A Yeast Specie Isolated From A Fermented Beverage For Mixed Fruit Wine Production", IJTRSD, Vol. 5, (Issue 5), pp 537 - 542, Academia registered
32Umeh S. O., Nwiyi I. U., Dimejesi S. A. Ikele M.O, Ugwu CH.. (2021, July), "Cassava Retting water: An alternative source of Industrial Cellulose (Enzyme)", International Journal of Trends in Scientific Research, Vol. 5, (Issue 5), pp 531 - 536
33Alum E. A., Umeh S. O.. (2020, February), "In Vitro Control Of Post Harvest Spoilage Fungi Affecting Sweet Potato (Ipomea Batatas) In Ebonyi State, South-Eastern Nigeria", IJSRP, Vol. 10, (Issue 2), pp 403-416, Academia registered
34Agwuna L. Chukwuma, Umeh S. Ogonna, Egbuim T. Chukwudiegwu.. (2019, August), "Study On The Wine Production Attributes Of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Isolated From Sucrose Enriched Palm Wine And Non-Sucrose Enriched Palm Wine", IJAB, Vol. 8, (Issue 5), pp 257-262
35Alum E. A., Umeh S. O., Amajor J. U, Reuben-Kalu J. I.. (2019, April), "Occurrence Of Post-harvert Fungi Affecting Sweet Potato (Ipomoae Batatas(L) LAM) In Ebonyi State, South Eastern Nigeria.", NOJ, Vol. 50, pp 101 - 109, Academia registered
36Umeh S. O., Okpalla J., Okafor J. N. C.. (2019, January), "Novel Sources Of Saccharomyces Species As Leavening Agent In Bread Making", IJTRSD, Vol. 3, (Issue 2), pp 827 - 832, Academia registered
37E. A. Alum, S. O. Umeh, J. I. Reuben-Kalu, A. N. Ohuoba. (2019, April), "Impact Of Myco-induced Post Harvest Deterioration On The Proximate Composition Of Roots Of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas (L) LAM) Grown In Ebonyi State", Journal of Agriculture and Food Science, Vol. 17, (Issue 1), pp 89 - 97, Academia registered
38Okpalla Jude, Umeh Sophina O., Dim Okechi L.. (2019, February), "L-Glutaminase Production By A Terrestrial Pseudomonas Specie Isolated From Nigerian Soil.", IJAB, Vol. 8, (Issue 2), pp 62 - 66, Academia registered
39Okpalla J., Umeh S. O., Ottih C. J.. (2019, March), "Studies On The Occurrence Of Pathogens In Fermented African Oil Bean Seed, Ugba", WJMRD, Vol. 5, (Issue 3), pp 114 - 119, Academia registered
40Umeh S. O., Okafor U. C., Awah N. S., Obasi C. J., Asogwa B.. (2018, March), "Preliminary Investigation Into The Use Of Rosselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) And Ugiri (Irvingia Gabonensis) Fruits In Wine Production.e", AIS, Vol. 3, (Issue 3), pp 64 - 68, Academia registered
41Agu C. G., Thomas B. T., Ogunkomaya A. M., Umeh S. O.. (2018, February), "Beta- Lactamase Producing Staphylococcus aureus isolated from some meat and meat- Based Foods", Journal of Advances in Microbiology, Vol. 7, pp 66 - 75
42Agu C. G., Thomas B. T., Ogunkomaya A. M., Umeh S. O.. (2018, May), "Beta-Lactamase Producing Staphylococcus Aureus Isolated From Some Meat And Meat-based Foods", AJSN, Vol. 7, pp 66 - 75, Academia registered
Conference Papers
1Umeh S.O., Agu G. C.. (2017, June), "Cellulose Activity During Retting Of Different Forms Of Fresh Cassava Tubers For Fufu Production", Nigerian society for Microbiology
2Umeh S. O., Agu G. C., Uwaoma J. C.. (2017, June), "Study Into The Malting Properties Of Sorghum Variety, Dawa, (Sorghum Vulgare", Nigerian society for Microbiology
3Umeh S. O., Dimejesi S. A.. (2017, August), "Mixed Fruit Wine Produced Using Yeast Isolated From Burukutu, A Local Beverage Drink.", OWSD-BIU
4Dimejesi S. A., Umeh S. O.. (2017, August), "Microbiology And Amino Acid Profile Of "Ogiri", A Food Condiment Produced From Fluted Pumpkin (Telferia Occidentalis) Seeds", OWSD-BIU
5Umeh S. O., Dimejesi S. A.. (2017, August), "Cassava Retting Water: An Alternative Source For Industrial Cellulase (Enzyme).",
6Okafor U. C., Umeh S. O., Obasi C. J., Okafor O. I.. (2016, September), "Effect Of Additives On The Retting Time Of Fresh Cassava Tubers", Nigerian society for Microbiology
7Okafor U. C., Orji M. U., Umeh S. O., Onyeneho V. I., Chidi-Onuorah L.C., Kyrian-Ogbonna E. A.. (2016, November), "Comparative Evaluation Of The Hydrocarbon Utilizing Microorganisms From Soil Samples From Onitsha And Abagana, Anambra State, Nigeria.", FADIB
8Umeh S. O., Okeke B. C., Emelugo B. N.. (2014, November), "Effect Of Additives On The Retting Time Of Fresh Cassava Tubers", FADIB
9Ajiwe V. I. E., Ewereji P. O., Umeh S. O., Awuzie C. I.. (2009, October), "The Preliminary Study On The Medicinal Constituents Of Lasianthera Africana (Nkanka) Leaves", Chemical Society of Nigeria
10Ajiwe V. I. E., Chukwu C. C., Umeh S. O., Ajiwe A. C.. (2007, October), "The Preliminary Investigation On The Pharmaceutical Composition Of The Root Of Anthocleista Djalonensis", Chemical Society of Nigeria

Academic Leadership Qualities

Supervisions
1"Microbiological, Physicochemical and Storage Qualities of Tomato Jam Produced with High and Low Glycemic Carbohydrates" (2026). Completed Masters project by Obiefuna, Ugochukwu Gregory/ 2023486002FA
2"Microbiological, Physicochemical and Storage Qualities of Tomato Jam Produced with High and Low Glycemic Carbohydrates" (2026). Completed Masters project by Obiefuna, Ugochukwu Gregory/ 2023486002FA
3"Evaluation of Watermelon -Pineapple Blend Wine Produced Using Stress-Tolerant Yeasts Isolated from Apple (Malus domestica) and Banana (Musa spp)" (2026). Completed Masters project by Ezeuko Chukwuemeka Macillinus/ 2023486010FA
4"Probiotic Activities of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Different Types of Pap Against Selected Bacterial Strains" (2026). Completed Masters project by Okeke, Joy Ukamaka/ 2023486006FA
5"Comparative Studies on Processed Garri Products from New Nextgen Cassava Varieties (IITA and NRCRI) and Traditional Cassava Varieties (TME 419)" (2026). Completed Masters project by Okeke, Gibson Chekwubechukwu / 2018486016P
6"Occurrences and Biocontrol of Post harvest Spoilage Fungi Affecting Sweet Potato (Ipomoes batatas in Ebonyi State, Southeastern Nigeria" (2021). Completed Doctorate project by Alum, Eucheria Akanele (2013487018P)
7"Epidemiological Studies of Urogenital Schistosoma haematobium and Cancer genetic Marker among School Children in Anambra North Senatorial District, Anambra State" (2023). Completed Doctorate project by Chinweike-Umeh Susan Nkechinyere (2018587093F)
8"Production of Micronutrient rich drinks and Associated Microorganisms From Some Nigerian underexploited Fruits and Tuber." (2022). Completed Doctorate project by Ogbonna, Ugoyi Sonia A.
9"Effect of Untreated Brewery Wastewater on the Soil Bacteriological and Physiochemical Properties and Crop Yield" (2022). Completed Masters project by Mbonu Chioma Felicitas (2016486003F)
10"Plasmid Profile of Multi drug Resistant Bacteria Isolated from Different Clinical Specimens from COOUTH, Awka" (2022). Completed Masters project by Kemakonam Christian C. (2014486017F)
11"Microbiological and Nutritive Assessment of Milk Blend From Tiger Nut and Soybean" (2021). Completed Masters project by Okorafor, Amarachi Grace (2016486018F
12"Studies on the Use of Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus) Flour as an Adjunct in Beer Brewing)" (2021). Completed Masters project by Francis, Chinyere Franca (2013486041F)
13"Comparative Studies of Controlled and Natural Fermented Egusi Seeds (Citrullus colocynthis) and African Oil Bean Seeds (Pentraclethra macrophylla)" (2021). Completed Masters project by Umeano, Blessing Chisom (2014486002F)
14"Potential Application of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Isolated from Palm wine and Burukutu in Beer Production" (2019). Completed Masters project by Agwuna, Linus Chukwuma (2014486033F
15"Microorganisms Associated with Food Vending in Selected Towns in Anambra State and their Implications in Food borne Diseasesrn" (2019). Completed Masters project by Egbuim, Timothy Chukwudiegwu (2014486021F)
16"Physicochemical and Microbiological Evaluation of the Leaves and Seed Powder of Selected Bitter Plants used as Hops in Beer Production." (2022). Completed Doctorate project by Uchendu, Anaesthesia Chekwube
Grants
1Awardee: "Standardization and Preservation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Baker's Yeast) From Indigenous Beverages for Subsequent use in Baking Industries(" (August, 2022 to May, 2023). Completed sponsored grant by TetFund IBR
Examinerships
1Chief Examiner, "Professorial Assessment" (March, 2026 to April, 2026). Completed External Exam
2Chief Examiner, "Readership Assessment" (January, 2022 to March, 2022). Completed External Exam
3Chief Examiner, "Undergraduate External Examination" (June, 2015 to May, 2016). Completed External Exam
4Chief Examiner, "Postgraduate External Examination" (March, 2022). Ongoing External Exam

Relevant Events Attended

Conferences
1"4th Biosciences International Conference", (Faculty of Biosciences, NAU, Awka), 13th May, 2026 to 14th May, 2026; Live/ Virtual
2"Third Annual Int, Conference of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World", (OWSD), 10th May, 2022 to 13th May, 2022; IMT Conference Hall Enugu
3"43rd Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Society for Microbiology", (Nigerian Society for Microbiology), 6th September, 2021 to 10th September, 2021; Ebitimi Auditorium, University Park, UNOPORT
4"21st Annual Conference/Workshop", (FADIB), 24th November, 2015 to 25th November, 2015; Unizik Auditorium
5"ANACHEM Conference", (ANACHEM, Anambra State Chapter), 31st October, 2008 to 31st October, 2008; ANSU
6"21st Annual Conference/Workshop", (ANACHEM, Anambra State Chapter), 26th October, 2007 to 26th October, 2007; Unizik Auditorium
Other Events
1"Enago Academy Workshop On Writing And Printing", (Enago Academy), 15th December, 2017 to 15th December, 2017; Unizik Auditorium
2"Third Int. Conference And Scientific Exhibition", (OWSD-BIU), 30th July, 2017 to 3rd August, 2017; Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
3"21st Annual Conference/Workshop Of The Foundation For African Development Through International Biotechnology (FADIB)", (FADIB), 24th November, 2015 to 25th December, 2015; Unizik Auditorium
4"ANACHEM Conference", (ANACHEM, Anambra State Chapter), 31st October, 2008 to 31st October, 2008; Anambra State University, Uli